Understanding hatred
Understanding hatred
Leviticus 19:17 “Do not hate your brother in your heart. Rebuke your neighbour frankly so that you will not share in his guilt.”
Extra Reading: Leviticus 19:1-22.
Is it wrong to hate? Of course, it will depend on the object of our hate. God’s Word restrains us from hating another person, because every person is a unique creation of God, an eternal soul that can be redeemed. But we should certainly hate the sinful things that everyone else hates, and that is evil things or practices. We are to love the sinner but hate the sin. Foul language, perversion, crime, waywardness, even gossip are the things to hate. Scripture also emphasizes God’s hatred for sin and evil. Believers are commanded to commanded to love those who hate them. But is it easy? In Matthew 5:43-44 Jesus teaches states, “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” God knows that there is blessing in loving your enemy. Christians are expected to be different in a world that is evil.
Hatred is an evidence of corrupt nature. The psalmist has enough proof to this. Psalm 25:19 states, “See how my enemies have increased and how fiercely they hate me!” There are many non-Christians who hate God in this world. No person can continue to hate God and survive in this world. There are serious consequences to that type of behaviour. Listen to what God’s Word says, “But those who hate him he will repay to their face by destruction; he will not be slow to repay to their face those who hate him” (Deuteronomy 7:10). What causes hatred? Hatred comes from following our own sinful desires. Instead, we must allow the Holy Spirit to fill our lives, leaving no room for hatred (Galatians 5:19-23). You will recall an incident in the Old Testament where Haman hated Mordecai because he refused to bow down before him, he was furious. This petty jealousy, a hunger for recognition, drove Haman to insane hared that would not be satisfied until Mordecai was killed (Esther 5:9). Be careful! Petty jealousy can lead to hatred, which can lead to violent thoughts or actions.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, cleanse my heart of all hatred today. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen!
Rev. Samuel N. Modise
